Book excerpt: Founded by Mormon pioneers seeking a place to practice their religion, Salt Lake City became a center of regional commerce, fueled by mining and the completion of the Union Pacific and local railroads. It ultimately attracted residents from all parts of Europe, as well as Mexico, China, and Japan. Historic Photos of Salt Lake City captures the story of this unique community through still photography selected from the finest collections, a visual record of the city's history presented in striking black-and-white photographs. From the building of the magnificent Mormon Temple and Tabernacle to the establishment of America's first department store; from muddy streets to wide boulevards with park-like medians; from Greek grocery stores to Japanese-American baseball teams, Historic Photos of Salt Lake City tells a visual story of a unique American city.